‘Life is like playing a violin solo in public and learning the instrument as one goes on.’


In this collection of essays, Samuel Butler brings his sharp wit and unorthodox thinking to a variety of subjects, ranging from personal reflections on life to critiques of society, art, and scientific theories. These essays are both humourous and insightful, revealing a sceptical but imaginative mind. A captivating introduction to Butler’s thought, this collection serves as a strong starting point for readers interested in his ideas.


Samuel Butler was an English novelist, essayist, and critic. He is best known for his satirical novel Erewhon and his semi-autobiographical novel The Way of All Flesh, which is considered to be a masterpiece.